Green energy comes in many different forms including solar energy. There are many reasons to buy solar panels for the home, including tax deductions. Read this article for tips on using solar panels and other green alternatives.
Shade the windows from sunlight to conserve energy in summer. Keep blinds closed and curtains drawn. By using heavy window covering you house will remain cooler which will decrease the amount of air conditioning needed. Energy and money are both saved this way.
Use cold water in your washing machine. If you use warm or hot water in your washing machine, almost 90% of your energy use goes towards heating the water. Washing clothes in cold water can be just as effective as a warm cycle, especially with today’s cold water detergents. In addition, remember to wash full loads to maximize energy efficiency.
Be sure to cover your windows with drapes or blinds when not at home. Your house will stay cool and you won’t use as much energy this way. Generally, your home’s south-facing walls and windows receive the most sun exposure. Install window coverings like heavy curtains, drapes, roman or roller shades, or blinds on all windows.
Do your research when it comes to the available energy sources where you live. Calculate the expense of using these types of utilities while noting any recent legislation pertaining to energy costs. It may be beneficial to switch from electric heat to natural gas heat, or from city water to well water, for example.
Dishwashers that are not full when run, are not making efficient use of your energy. It consumes the exact same amounts of electricity and water even if it’s not full. Make sure you are using the energy saving settings on your dishwasher that will air-dry your dishes.
If you want to have hot water, but at a lower cost, then check into solar energy. Consider a solar water heater. There are direct circulation systems and indirect ones. If you have been plagued by frozen or broken pipes in the past, an indirect one could be for you.
Energy Expenses
Have your friends and business associates contact you via email rather than snail mail. So, try your best to be as paperless as you possibly can. This helps businesses you deal with reduce their energy expenses, and it helps you reduce energy expenses, as well. This benefits everyone in society along with your own business.
A solar oven can be made to assist you in your baking needs. A solar oven can be made by using an old window, a box and for reflection, a piece of foil. You can reach an oven temperature of 300 degrees or more without using any other source of energy besides the sun. It only takes a few minutes to build a solar oven.
Keep a record of your energy efficiency goals. Each month, check your utility bills to check your year-over-year progress with regard to saving energy. By being aware of the energy you use, you can start to reduce that consumption. For instance, if your stated goal is to reduce your consumption of electricity and water, you are more apt to remember to turn off the lights and shut off the faucet when not using them.
Billion Kilowatt
When the holiday season rolls around again, make the switch to LED lighting rather than sticking with traditional lighting solutions. Research has shown that in the United States alone, more than two billion kilowatt hours worth of power could be saved if everyone made this transition. By having everyone make this change, the country can save 2 billion kilowatt power hours. That amount of power could run 200,000 homes for one full year. All that said, you can at least save some money on your own energy costs!
As you could see, solar panels have a lot of desirable benefits when it comes to home owners, aside from saving energy. You can buy and install them fairly easily and won’t have to pay for replacements for years, as they last a while. Choosing energy solutions that are green can both reduce your carbon footprint, and save you money simultaneously.
